Abstract: The focus of this study was the design, delivery, and receipt of an experiential, graduate-level leadership course emphasizing the development of self as leader and structured around principles of neurolinguistic programming. The study explored the questions: How did participants perceive changes in their own growth and development? What were the experiences and emergent outcomes of being engaged in a curriculum and learning environment designed to facilitate personal change? The rationale for this course was rooted in the instructors' beliefs that at the heart of organizational change is individual change; at the heart of individual change is the capacity to change beliefs, values and perceptions; and this capacity resides in the inner world of the individual. The rationale for the research included the recent emphasis in leadership literature on self-leadership, personal mastery, and the character and thought processes of the effective leader. The objective was to begin to address the marked absence of academic research into the how of effective leadership and to research the use of NLP principles and processes in the area of leadership development. The study drew upon four literatures: those on learning organizations, individual change and development, leadership, and neurolinguistic programming. Issues addressed included the notions of perception, dialogue, disclosure, identity, empowerment and personal change. Essential aspects of the study were the use of NLP tools and concepts within the scope of a ten-week course. Would these facilitate change and accelerate the development of leadership potential? Would certain exercises and interventions be more important than others? Would any students still be using NLP-based processes in their lives a year later? The research was conducted using qualitative methods, including interviews, video- and audio-taping, journals, course evaluations, and follow-up interviews one year later. Among the findings of the study were: (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2005 APA, all rights reserved).